Analysis for Stepanek-Kunitsyn (ATP Brisbane)

Head-to-head record 0:0

Radek Stepanek of the Czech Republic will play Russian talent Igor Kunitsyn in the opening round at Brisbane. Stepanek is an experienced player whose career was disrupted several times due to long lasting injuries but he always managed to get back. He is not as talented as the other top players but was always known for the hard work and drill he experienced on his way to the top 10. He can be rated as an offensive baseliner and sometimes uses the serve-and-volley style of play. Even if it is said he is a versatile player, his style play is most suited to fast surfaces. In 2008, he achieved some good results such as reaching the final in San Jose but lost to Andy Roddick. He also made it to the semifinals in the Rome masters losing to Novak Djokovic after he retired. In the 2008 Summer Olympics, he lost to Michael Llodra in the first round in 3 sets. Stepanek finished the season ranked 27, but attended the end of year Masters Cup as an alternate. After Roddick pulled out through injury before his second match, Stepanek entered the tournament with two round robin ties to play against Roger Federer and Gilles Simon. He gave world number 2 Federer a tough match, losing 7-6 6-4, but was beaten comprehensively by Simon. His other results from the end of the year weren´t such impressive and he experienced the problems with decline in form that culminated by the defeat from Pete Sampras in home exhibition. On the contrary, Kunitsyn had the career best year and won his first ATP Title in the Kremlin Cup in Moscow where he defeated compatriot Marat Safin. Both players like the fast conditions here and we expect the match. It is likely going to be a question of a few balls and we are happy to support the underdog at the odds around 3.